A VILLAGE was invaded by an array of stuffed straw figures as a scarecrow festival was launched.

Affetside welcomed visitors and locals to enjoy a sunny afternoon on September 26, when the first Affetside Scarecrow Festival was held.

Families tucked into tea and cakes on Affetside's village green after passing through the village to enjoy the scarecrows.

The winning scarecrow - a policeman with a speed radar gun - was made by Andrea and Phil Cheetham, of Watling Street Road.

Councillors Yvonne Wright and Iain Gartside judged 11 scarecrows displayed on the day, and were accompanied by Bury North MP David Nuttall and prospective conservative Councillor Greg Keeley.

Resident 'Worzel Gummidge' was also helping out on the village green where there was also the opportunity for youngsters to colour in scarecrow posters.

Cllr Wright said: “It was a pleasure to judge the first Affetside scarecrow competition.

“The standard of entrants was very high and it was really difficult to choose the winner.”

Cllr Gartside added: “We chose the traffic policeman scarecrow as winner as his message is a current topical one in Affetside regarding speeding motorists.

“Residents have campaigned for years for a reduction in speed limits.

“We hope this contest will be an annual event, and congratulations to all involved.”

Joanne Wilcock, chairman of the Affetside Society said: "The first Affetside Scarecrow Festival was a great success and is now a new addition to our already extensive calendar of social events arranged in conjunction with the Affetside Society whose aim is to bring our community together.

“A lot of hard work went into organising the event by certain villagers and their efforts made for a very creative and enjoyable day.”